Judith S. Bloch

Who is Judith S. Bloch?

Judith S. Bloch, LCSW, pioneer and activist in the field of early childhood education, and advocate for national public policy changes that address the needs of children with developmental disabilities and their families, was among the first professionals in the United States to recognize and promote the value of early intervention for children with special needs. She is the founder of Variety Child Learning Center, in Syosset, New York, a private, not-for-profit 501agency that provides education and therapeutic services and support to young children with special needs, and their families, along with training for professionals.

"I think the most important thing I've done is start a program for young children who had been neglected, denied opportunity to learn, to become part of the social mainstream. In addition to the school's support services for families, I've been an advocate and, more recently, focused on research to demonstrate the value of early intervention, not only to children and their families, but to the community. And not only in terms of values-children are our most precious resource-I think its cost effective. We can promote development and effect change if we start early. Its not possible if we delay or provide services too late."-Judith S. Bloch, Distinction Magazine, 1999.